USA introduces standard for BIM modelling

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A nationwide group of US building information modelling users has released a new standard covering models for all stages of design and construction.

The standard is designed to allow everyone involved with construction projects to articulate how detailed model elements for the different building systems are, or need to be, throughout the design and construction process.

It has been developed by the BIMForum and is known as the level of development specifications (LOD). It was developed under an agreement with the American Institute of Architects.

Now that the specification is finalised, the BIMForum is making it open to the entire construction, architectural and design community and encouraging them to use it as a reference standard in BIM agreements and execution plans,

“We want everyone to have the same understanding about how much information should go into each element of a building model, and for what uses those models are suitable,” said Dmitri Alferieff, the director of the BIMForum. “This specification will eliminate much of the confusion that comes with having different expectations for what should be in the models.”

Alferieff noted that the new development specifications allow model authors to define what their models can be relied on for and allow other users to understand the value, and limitations, of models they receive.

“The key to eliminating confusion is setting common expectations for everyone involved in a project,” said HOK principal James Vandezande, who served on the BIMForum committee. “This specification is a tool that levels expectations between different team members about the information contained in the models.”

A team of 16 contractors, engineers and architects began drafting the standards in early 2011. Officials with the BIMForum published a draft version of the specification earlier this year and sought comments from the broader construction community. Nearly 100 people provided input, which helped the drafting committee refine the specification.

For more information and to download the new specification, go to www.bimforum.org/lod (link opens in new tab).